Council launches landlord partnership to tackle housing emergency

Fife Council has initiated a partnership scheme calling on landlords to offer their properties for short-term use to support vulnerable families facing homelessness. This move comes amid a recognised housing emergency in Scotland, with the council seeking to increase the supply of affordable housing and relieve pressure on local housing services.

The Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL) has expressed its support for the scheme, highlighting its role in providing vital accommodation for homeless families. By leasing properties to the council for fixed terms, landlords benefit from guaranteed monthly rent and property management services, while retaining control over repairs and maintenance.

How the scheme works for landlords

Landlords who participate in the partnership lease their properties directly to Fife Council, which ensures no void periods and manages the tenancy. This arrangement offers landlords a reliable income stream and reduces the administrative burden typically associated with letting properties.

Councillor Judy Hamilton, Fife Council’s housing spokesperson, emphasised the council’s commitment to addressing the housing emergency. She explained that the council is developing affordable housing through multiple avenues, including using council-owned land and buildings, collaborating with private sector landowners and developers, and utilising Scottish Government Affordable Housing Supply Programme (AHSP) funding.

“This new Landlord Partnership will make sure that more families will soon have access to safe, secure and affordable housing in various locations across Fife,” Councillor Hamilton stated.

Benefits and support for participating landlords

Councillor Hamilton also noted the importance of providing reassurance and a straightforward service to property owners. The partnership aims to meet these expectations while contributing to the availability of quality homes in the community.

“Every new property we secure makes a real difference for families waiting for a house that meets their needs,” she said. “Working in partnership with Landlord Accreditation Scotland (LAS), members will benefit from a supportive network committed to improving standards and strengthening the private rented sector across Fife.”

Industry backing for a practical approach to homelessness

John Blackwood, chief executive of the Scottish Association of Landlords, welcomed the initiative as a practical response to Scotland’s housing crisis. Speaking to Property118, he said: “We are pleased to be joining with Landlord Accreditation Scotland in partnering with Fife Council on this innovative and practical approach to tackling homelessness, particularly for vulnerable families.”

Blackwood added: “By working together, we can help some of the most at-risk people get into safe, flexible homes and find new tenant customers for our members. Scotland is facing a housing crisis, and it will only be resolved with all stakeholders, including the private rented sector, playing their part through initiatives like this.”

How landlords can get involved

Landlords interested in participating in the scheme can contact Fife Council’s Housing Access Team for more information. The partnership represents an opportunity for property owners to contribute to alleviating homelessness while securing a reliable rental income.

What this means for UK landlords

This partnership highlights the increasing role of private landlords in addressing housing shortages and homelessness in Scotland. By offering properties for short-term use under council management, landlords can support vulnerable tenants while benefiting from guaranteed rent and reduced management responsibilities. The scheme also reinforces the value of accreditation and collaboration within the private rented sector to improve housing standards and tenant outcomes.

Suggested internal link anchors

• housing emergency in Scotland
• affordable housing supply
• Scottish Association of Landlords
• Landlord Accreditation Scotland
• private rented sector
• guaranteed rent schemes
• homelessness support
• property management services
• Scottish Government AHSP funding
• tenant protection
• landlord partnerships

TLA update

TLA is launching a new Trusted Partners Hub in Q1 2026, featuring verified and approved service providers selected to support landlords, tenants, and property management businesses. We are inviting legal, trades, insurance, financial, mortgage, tenant screening, and other service providers to register their interest here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/